On a sunny spring morning, men, women and children took to the roads and pedaled in the first ever “Hartford HealthCare Ride to Wellness”, presented by Bike Cheshire.

The ride kicked off from the historic town green in Cheshire, where participants were welcomed by Dr. Subramani Seetharama, Chief of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Hartford HealthCare.

“We thank Bike Cheshire for their partnership. We share the same focus and passion for health and wellness,” said Seetharama. “The Hartford HealthCare Family Center will be opening this fall. Our primary care group will be there, in addition to specialty groups, dermatology, cardiology, neurology, headache center, movement disorders and physical rehabilitation. I have been a part of the Cheshire community since 2001, so I am thrilled we are here.”

Physical therapists from Hartford HealthCare Rehab were on hand before the ride to provide massages and stretching for interested participants.

Participants chose between a 4.5-mile ride and a longer, more challenging 10-mile course. Both rides ended at the Farmington Canal Rail Trail, where they were met by members of the Hartford HealthCare team who were available to answer questions about the new facility opening on South Main Street in the fall. The two different course lengths made it a very accessible ride for all abilities. Triathletes rode alongside youngsters, proving that biking is a life-long activity for all to enjoy.

A second ride in the series is planned for September 21.